4 underhyped Carolina Panthers heading into 2020

Carolina Panthers Player No. 3: Efe Obada (DL)

The Carolina Panthers appear loaded on their defensive line once again in 2020. This was an area of the field that produced a lot of sacks last time out. But they were found wanting in terms of stopping the run.

This is expected to improve considerably with the presence of Kawann Short and No. 7 overall pick Derrick Brown on the interior. And there should be plenty of space for pass rushers on the outside to work.

One player that could become a diamond in the rough is Efe Obada. The Nigerian born defensive end has the power and versatility that the new coaching staff is going to love. And although he is still a little raw in terms of experience. He goes into the season with a tremendously high ceiling.

Obada started playing football late. So it would be hard to suggest there isn’t more to come from him. Matt Rhule has indicated there might be an option to put the player on the interior during pass-rushing situations. And given the physical tools at his disposal, this is something that could assist the team considerably.

There is plenty of competition along the defensive front for minutes next season. Obada and others will need to showcase their talents during camp with no preseason games on the schedule. But his contribution last season leaves him with plenty of reasons to be encouraged.